Upgrade my stock alternator

[TelisSE440]

As i have been driving my Challenger during night, i noticed that my battery was slowly discharging, electrical components being used were electric dual fans, MSD ignition, electric water pump with halogen front headlights. I'm thinking of upgrading my alternator and I was watching some new. I saw a lot of aftermarket ones but i'm more into the stock look (well... i'm doing my best at that) and i found those alternator upgrade kits:

http://store.alternatorparts.com/daimlerchrysler.aspx

thinking of the 80A one, will i be ok with this unit and bypassing the ammeter cable? or do i need a new one

[Cudaragtop]

I did the upgrade you are looking at and it worked out for me. I don't have an electric fan or water pump though.
http://www.cuda-challenger.com/cc/index.php?topic=102616.0

Other things to consider:
Relays if you are not already using them for your headlights, water pump and fans.
Nice pre-made headlight relay kits available from a member here.
http://www.cuda-challenger.com/cc/index.php?topic=104967.msg1035742#msg1035742

Make sure all loads have good grounds also the voltage regulator and block to firewall.
Add up all your loads, I would not exceed 900 watts, 64 Amps at 14 volts with an 80 amp alternator.
I follow the 80% rule. Don't exceed 80% of the alt output to keep a little headroom.

Replacing incandescent light bulbs with LEDs will help a little too. Tail, turn, marker, dash, etc...

[TelisSE440]

Thanks Randy, great post !  I'll order it when i get finished with my new exhaust system, when i saw your post (how didn't i see your post, i searched everything  ) i wondered if the charge at idle is the same as the stock alternator, not that it is a deal breaker, just asking...

[Strawdawg]

The charge at idle will be similar to stock but the current increase will come on off idle

[TelisSE440]

Is it mandatory to bypass the ammeter? Will it be so hot that there is a problem of melting or fire?

[Strawdawg]

The ammeter, the wiring, and the bulkhead connector are not made for more current draw than stock. Imo, it was marginal when it was new and age has made it worse

[Strawdawg]

So yes,  I think it's mandatory

[GoodysGotaCuda]

Is it mandatory to bypass the ammeter? Will it be so hot that there is a problem of melting or fire?

They are notoriously problematic for even stock charging systems. I would, and have, bypassed the ammeter...along with the corresponding bulkhead connections. These are areas that the factory did not do very well and age doesn't help either.

[TelisSE440]

The ammeter then wouldn't read correctly, what do you use instead for accurate reading  ?

[Strawdawg]

Volt meter... As long as the  voltage is 13v, or there abouts, the battery is being charged adequately. 14 is better because the lights win be brighter, the fans will pull more, the pump will push a greater volume and the fuel pump can give you more if needed.

[roadman5312]

13.8 to 14.2 volts to keep the battery charged.  Put relays on all heavy load circuits.

[TelisSE440]

Thanks guys Great info!!!

[734406pk]

The ammeter, the wiring, and the bulkhead connector are not made for more current draw than stock. Imo, it was marginal when it was new and age has made it worse

  at very best.